Medford Coronavirus Cases Rise Above 800

MEDFORD, MA — The number of coronavirus cases in Medford has risen above 800, according to the latest numbers from the city. As of Tuesday, May 5, the case count stood at 805.

Medford Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn said Tuesday the number of deaths at long-term care facilities has been "staggering and devastating." At the Courtyard Nursing Care Center in Medford, there have been 54 deaths attributed to the coronavirus, and 117 additional residents have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Forty-two staff members have tested positive as well.

The National Guard has provided assistance with staffing and testing at Medford's nursing homes, and city officials remain in daily contact with administrators to address their ongoing need for resources like PPE, additional staffing and testing.

Medford will give away more than 5,000 disposable, non-surgical masks to residents this week. Encore Boston Harbor donated more than 1,000 potted plants and flowers to the city to distribute as well.

Last month the Medford Board of Health placed an order for 10,000 non-surgical masks through a regional health department collaborative. Many of those have been reserved for first responders, senior citizens and other community members in need, but the city will make thousands of the remaining masks available to Medford residents.

Residents are invited to a drive through distribution event on Thursday, May 7, from 12 to 2 p.m., outside of Hormel Stadium. Masks will be distributed by city staff and vetted volunteers, limited to three disposable masks per person as supplies last. Attendees should be limited to those most at risk or most in need of temporary masks (i.e. residents over 65, anyone with underlying health conditions, or essential workers).

More coronavirus updates in Medford:

• Social Distancing is Still Critical. While you're enjoying the warmer weather, please remember that it’s essential we continue to practice social distancing. Gatherings of over 10 people are prohibited, including gatherings at private residences, and group activities. Park use is limited to passive use only and playgrounds and dog parks are closed.

• Speed Limit: Though there may be less traffic on the road, MassDOT has reported that the number of roadway fatalities has increased. Remember to obey speed limits, wear a seatbelt, and observe the state’s hands-free law anytime you’re behind the wheel.